Your Home at Santa Clara University
Improving communication and fostering engagement with parents and families is a key priority for the Division of Student Life. We want to offer support and cultivate partnerships within our extensive Bronco community. We are dedicated to fostering active engagement from parents and families through various channels, including communication platforms, networking opportunities, events, and philanthropic initiatives.
Acknowledging the important role parents and families have in student success, we deeply value your collaboration as your student navigates their college journey. Your participation is invaluable, and we remain dedicated to assisting you every step of the way. Please reach out if there is any way we can provide support.
Division of Student Life - Director of Parent and Family Communication and Engagement
Steven Ponce, M.A.
In October 2023, Steven assumed the inaugural role of Director of Parent and Family Communication and Engagement, bringing with him a decade of experience in higher education marketing and communication to Santa Clara University. Possessing a bachelor's degree in business administration with a concentration in marketing and a master's degree in organizational leadership, Steven has established a strong foundation for his role. His proficiency in multi-channel communication highlights his expertise in effectively engaging with both current and prospective students' parents and family members.
In his role and consistent with the vision set forth by Jeanne Rosenberger, Vice Provost for Student Life, Steven plays a crucial role in ensuring consistent and unified communication with parents, family members, and supporters of SCU students. He assumes the role of a dedicated partner to parents, acting as a liaison on behalf of SCU to ensure a transparent and effective information flow. Steven is committed to fostering a strong partnership with parents and family members, serving as a reliable point of contact and support in their journey with SCU students.
Center for Student Involvement - Senior Assistant Director for New Student and Parent Programs
Andres Elvira, M.A.
Andres Elvira joined the Santa Clara University community in October 2023 as the Senior Assistant Director for New Student and Parent Programs in the Center for Student Involvement. Andres brings a wealth of experience, having previously served as the Orientation Coordinator for New Student and Family Programs at San Jose State University. He holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology from California Lutheran University and a Master of Arts in Postsecondary Educational Leadership with a specialization in Student Affairs from San Diego State University. He is passionate about serving new students and their parents and family members as they make the transition to collegiate life and learning.
Under the oversight of Tedd Vanadilok, Director of the Center for Student Involvement, and with direct guidance from Lori Salazar, Associate Director of the Center for Student Involvement, Andres assumes the role of managing New Student Orientation for First-Year/Transfer students, Parents and Family members, as well as signature flagship events, including Welcome Weekend and Family Weekend. Actively engaged in the Association for Orientation, Transition, and Retention in Higher Education (NODA), Andres has contributed to various conference planning committees, network groups, and participated in the nationwide internship exchange program. Eagerly anticipating the opportunity to welcome new Broncos to the SCU community and culture, Andres is a dedicated leader in fostering a sense of belonging. Go Broncos!
